2018 wildfire season: Camp Fire post fire hazardous waste clean-up -- Jan 4 2019 update

I wrote about the hazardous waste clean-up following the Camp Fire in my December 19, 2018 article. Recall that part one of the clean-up involves hazardous waste clean-up by teams from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with the assistance of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Part two of the clean-up involves debris and ash removal. See the Butte County (CA) site on post-fire debris removal for more information.

As I write this, 45.8 percent of 13,000 properties in Paradise, California are designated (and signed) as hazardous waste removal being completed. The sign posted on the property designates that hazardous waste clean-up has been completed. In addition, a hazard fact sheet is posted. See this interactive website for current information, with maps.

I don't exactly know current information on resident re-entry into the fire area. That is, in early December 2018, I know that residents went to check points where giving a safety kit with information and protective clothing and a N95 mask to wear and instructions (see this re-entry page from Butte County recovers). Even when a property has been designated as having hazardous waste removal being complete, people must still take precautions when re-entering their property. Hazardous waste may still remain in building materials, ash on the ground and other areas of the property. As stated earlier, debris and ash removal falls under part two of the clean-up. Water may still be contaminated, including well water. Follow any water usage restrictions. Wells and septic systems may have been compromised.

I close with an excerpt from this Butte County Hazard Advisory:

DEBRIS AND HAZARDOUS WASTE

Fire damage can create significant health and safety hazards that may be present at individual properties. It is recommended that structure ash is not disturbed due to potential exposure to toxic materials. If you choose to visit your property, please consider the following:

• Wear sturdy shoes (steel toes and shanks are recommended) and clothing.
• Hazardous chemicals and conditions may be present.
• Inspect propane tanks for visible damage before turning on.
• Coverall clothing when in proximity to ash. Wear gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants to avoid skin contact, whenever possible.  
• Goggles should be worn.Contact with wet ash may cause chemical burns or irritation on skin. Change your shoes and clothing prior to leaving the decontamination site, to avoid tracking ash into your car, home, etc.
• Anything in contact with ash should be cleaned and sanitized. Sorting through/cleaning fire debris is not recommended.
• Be aware of slip, trip, fall, puncture and overhead hazards.
• Do not use leaf blowers or do any activities that will put ash into the air.
• Wear a close fitting respirator mask that is rated N-95 or P-100 to block particles from ash or smoke from being inhaled. N-95 respirators are well-
• fitted when they do not come into contact with facial hair; strap tension is adequate, not overly tightened; and masks fit across the nose bridge. A tight seal would not be possible for most children, even with a small adult-size model. People with heart or lung disease should consult their physician before using a respirator. 
• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is the only agency that certifies respirators to determine that they adequately protect people. Look for NIOSH approval on the package or label.

DO NOT REMOVE ASH AND DEBRIS WITHOUT APPROVAL FROM BUTTE COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL 
HEALTH 

Links in this article were valid at the time I wrote the article on January 4, 2019. I assume that these links will be active for as long as the clean-up continues.